0
0
Nigerian to Make Historic Space Trip with Blue Origin
A Nigerian could soon make history by becoming the first Nigerian to travel to space, thanks to Jeff Bezos’ aerospace company, Blue Origin. The Space Exploration and Research Agency (SERA), a U.S. for-profit company, has announced that one of the six seats for an upcoming flight of Blue Origin’s New Shepard suborbital vehicle will be reserved for a Nigerian, as reported by Semafor.
SERA’s decision to choose a Nigerian for this opportunity is part of its initiative to provide access to space for citizens of nations that have historically been underrepresented in space exploration. This initiative comes after Blue Origin and SERA joined forces in April with the goal of offering tourist flights on the New Shepard spacecraft.
Excited to team with SERA, the Space Exploration & Research Agency, to support such an inspiring initiative that makes space more accessible to so many countries! We’re looking forward to flying these future astronauts on #NewShepard and hearing their perspectives about the… April 22, 2024
The Nigerian government has also shown its support for this endeavor by signing a memorandum of understanding with SERA, according to the state-backed Voice of Nigeria. Mathew Adepoju, director-general of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), commended the collaboration, highlighting the progress made in Nigeria’s space program.
“Not many nations in Africa dreamed of having a space program, but today, NASRDA is the only space agency in Africa whose activities cover the entire space,” Adepoju stated, as reported by Voice of Nigeria.
The selection process for the Nigerian space traveler will be transparent and inclusive, with all Nigerians over 18 years old eligible to apply. SERA co-founder Joshua Skurla emphasized that no specific qualifications are required, and the selection will be based on public support and votes.
Nigeria, though having a modest space sector, has several satellites in orbit, developed and launched by other countries. NASRDA aims to enhance indigenous satellite technology capabilities, promote sustainable development through space technology, and now, delve into human spaceflight.
Stay Updated with Space News
For breaking space news, rocket launches, skywatching events, and more, follow our updates!
Image/Photo credit: source url
